Eight Filipino seafarers were detained in Malaysia for allegedly violating immigration laws, as reported by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The seafarers are crew members of MT Krishna 1, but the exact duration of their detention was not specified. In response to President Bongbong Marcos’ directive to safeguard the rights of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed that their office in Malaysia, in collaboration with the Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur, conducted a welfare visit to assess the well-being of the detained seafarers.
Labor Attachè Jocelyn Ortega and a lawyer from the Migrant Workers Office in Malaysia visited the seafarers in detention and presented a defense of good faith before the investigating officer. The results of the investigation are expected soon. Additionally, DMW plans to conduct its own inquiry into the License Manning Agency and the shipowner to understand the circumstances that led to the seafarers’ detention. The licensed manning agency has assured continued payment of salaries and benefits to the detained seafarers and their families.
The situation underscores the importance of protecting the welfare of Filipino workers abroad, particularly in cases of legal issues. The government’s swift response to the detention of the Filipino seafarers in Malaysia demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of OFWs. The ongoing investigations by DMW and the assurances from the manning agency regarding financial support for the detained seafarers reflect a proactive approach to addressing the situation and ensuring that the seafarers are supported during this challenging time.
